Sitewide Sale! 15% OFF! Use Code EPX15 *
Spironolactone is a medication often used as a diuretic or for treatment of heart failure. Spironolactone helps the body to retain the potassium that is sometimes lost in large amounts when using other diuretics. Spironolactone is used to treat congestive heart failure, edema, high blood pressure (hypertension), potassium deficiency, and hyperaldosteronism. Spironolactone works by increasing the levels of water excretion by the kidneys.
Spironolactone/HCTZ tablets contain the active ingredients spironolactone and hydrochlorothiazide. Spironolactone/HCTZ is prescribed for the treatment of congestive heart failure and ascites (fluid in the abdomen). This combination is often used when the pet does not respond to other diuretics.
Spironolactone and hydrochlorothiazide are prescription diuretics (water pills). Diuretics are agents which increase the excretion of water in the urine, ridding the body of excess fluid.
Pet | Weight | Dosage |
---|---|---|
Dog | All Weights | The usual dose in dogs and cats is 0.5 mg - 1 mg per pound of body weight every 12 hours |
Cats | All Weights | The usual dose in dogs and cats is 0.5 mg - 1 mg per pound of body weight every 12 hours |
Spironolactone Hydrochlorothiazide should not be used in pets with hyperkalemia (high potassium levels), Addison's disease, kidney failure, severe renal failure or significant renal impairment. It should be used cautiously in animals with hepatic (liver) disease, but is often used to treat ascites (accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, which causes abdominal swelling).
This drug is FDA-approved for human use. However, it is common practice for veterinarians to prescribe such drugs for use in dogs and cats.
Please contact your veterinarian if you notice any of the following reactions: dehydration with excessive thirst and decreased urine production, or electrolyte imbalances, possibly with weakness, lethargy, restlessness, stumbling, dizziness, muscle pain or cramping, lack of energy, vomiting and diarrhea.
Spironolactone/HCTZ will not cure a disease, but will help manage the symptoms. Spironolactone/HCTZ will start to have an effect within hours of being taken. The effect is short-lived, however, and the drug must consistently be given according to your veterinarian's directions to have the full effect.
Results may not be immediate and it can take several weeks to see improvement.